Calcium lactate

Calcium lactate (CAS 814-80-2), also known by its food additive designation E327, is a calcium salt of lactic acid produced through fermentation or neutralization processes. It functions as a firming agent, pH buffer, and calcium fortification source across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing. In food production, it is used to firm fresh-cut fruits and vegetables.

It does this without imparting the bitterness associated with calcium chloride, making it the preferred choice for ready-to-eat produce lines. Beverage and supplement manufacturers use it as a bioavailable calcium source. It is ideal for fortified drinks, chewable tablets, and effervescent formulations where solubility and taste profile are critical. Pharmaceutical compounders incorporate it into oral calcium supplements and antacid preparations.

Consistent purity and dissolution behavior directly affect product performance in these applications. In personal care, it acts as a buffering agent in oral hygiene products, including toothpastes and mouthwashes. Calcium lactate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules, with granulated forms preferred for direct compression. Standard grades include FCC, USP, BP, and Ph. Eur.

These grades cover food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical procurement requirements. Pentahydrate is the most common form, though anhydrous grades are available for moisture-sensitive applications.